Tensions soared at the General Court Martial in Makindye on Tuesday when Eron Kiiza, a lawyer representing opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Hajj Obeid Lutale, was arrested and detained by security personnel.
The dramatic incident unfolded during the high-profile trial, where both Besigye and Lutale face charges related to security offences and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
Kiiza’s arrest was ordered after he allegedly attempted to enter the dock to join his clients. The court held him in contempt, sparking outrage among the over 40 lawyers representing Besigye and Lutale.
The legal team has expressed concern over what they describe as obstruction of justice and intimidation.
Court Martial Chairman, Brigadier Freeman Mugabe was prompted to adjourn the court for 30 minutes.
Supporters Demand Justice
Supporters of Dr Besigye gathered outside the court wearing white and blue t-shirts and headbands emblazoned with the message, “Free Dr. KB and Hajji Obeid Lutale Now.” They chanted slogans and sang songs, decrying what they see as a “politically motivated trial”.
The Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, and other prominent opposition politicians attended the proceedings to show solidarity with Besigye.
Former Leader of Opposition Winnie Kiiza raised concerns about unidentified security personnel at the trial, noting the absence of name tags or proper identification.
Martha Karua Steps in
In a surprising development, Kenyan legal icon Martha Karua was yesterday granted a temporary practising certificate by the Uganda Law Council, enabling her to represent Besigye and Lutale. The decision has been widely praised as a step toward ensuring a fair trial.
Prominent Ugandan lawyer Isaac Ssemakadde welcomed the move, stating, “Granting Martha Karua a practising certificate has saved Uganda from global reprisals and restored the reputation of Ugandan lawyers.”
Concerns over Military Trials
Human rights activists, including Dr Sarah Bireete, have criticised the trial’s venue, arguing that a military court undermines the principles of justice.
“The military court is neither neutral nor impartial, as it serves as the complainant, investigator, prosecutor, and judge,” Bireete stated, describing the situation as a violation of Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to a fair trial.
Dr. Besigye and Lutale were remanded after their controversial abduction from Nairobi, Kenya, in November 2024.
